Lizzie Borden, the infamous figure at the heart of a notorious double murder in 1892, is receiving renewed attention in the latest season of Netflix’s anthology series, “Monster.” This season, titled “The Lizzie Borden Story,” explores the life of the 32-year-old woman who stood accused of brutally killing her father and stepmother. Despite her trial and public scrutiny, Borden was acquitted, and the case remains unsolved to this day.
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The series portrays a fictionalised narrative surrounding Borden’s love life, specifically her relationships with family maid Bridget Sullivan and actress Nance O’Neil. In a departure from historical fact, the show suggests that Lizzie never marries and ultimately finds solace in her connection with Bridget, played by Vicky Krieps. This interpretation aims to delve into her emotional landscape following the murders, exploring themes of companionship and intimacy amidst rampant speculation about her sexuality over the years.
In reality, Lizzie Borden’s social reputation diverged significantly from the “social pariah” depicted in the series. Although portrayed as reclusive, in life, she was an active participant in the Fall River community. According to historical records, Borden engaged in various church activities. She taught Sunday School for local immigrant children and was involved in groups like the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. During the festive season, she contributed her time by helping prepare Christmas dinners for local children, demonstrating her commitment to community service.
Unlike the show’s portrayal of Lizzie as someone with limited travel experience, historical accounts reveal she took a significant journey at the age of 30. Borden’s father financed a months-long tour of Europe for Lizzie and two of her cousins, providing a glimpse of a life beyond her familial confines before the tragic events of 1892. This aspect of her life highlights the opportunities available to her, challenging the portrayal of her as a woman who was solely rooted in the domestic sphere.
Following the murders, Lizzie Borden never married, neither during nor after her lifetime. In “Monster,” she is presented in a romantic relationship with Bridget after the death of her parents, a narrative choice that raises questions about historical accuracy and playwright interpretation. In reality, Lizzie maintained her unmarried status throughout her life, leading some historians to speculate about her sexual orientation – a topic that was largely taboo in the Victorian era.
Discussions surrounding her private life have been fueled by the absence of a conventional marriage, which was uncommon for women of her time. Scholars like Steven Seidman have suggested that societal preconceptions during the 19th century led to significant misunderstandings about women’s sexual desires and relationships. The ambiguity surrounding Lizzie’s friendships, particularly with Bridget and later Nance O’Neil, continues to spark debates among historians about her sexual identity.
The relationship with Nance O’Neil, for instance, has attracted considerable speculation. Post-acquittal, Lizzie’s bond with the actress grew, with O’Neil reportedly purchasing nearby property to be close to Lizzie. Historian Jennifer Jones has noted that their association raised eyebrows and stoked intrigue, although no conclusive evidence has confirmed a romantic involvement.
The narrative complexity surrounding Lizzie Borden swings between historical fact and fictional interpretation, especially in contemporary media like “Monster.” While the show explores a potential romance between Lizzie and Bridget, viewers are reminded of the historical context in which Lizzie lived and the societal standards that shaped women’s lives during the Victorian era.
Despite enduring public fascination, questions surrounding Lizzie Borden’s personal motives and desires with regard to love, companionship, and identity remain open for interpretation. This blend of fact, speculation, and artistic licence continues to captivate audiences, revealing that the true story of Lizzie Borden is as enigmatic as the crime for which she was tried.